ᐅ How can IKEA PLATSA shelving units be better illuminated in dark rooms?

Created on: 6 Dec 2016 08:32

Hello everyone,

I recently purchased IKEA Platsa shelving units for my home office, but I’m facing the issue that the room is quite dark, so the shelves don’t really stand out.

My question is: What options are there to better illuminate PLATSA shelves in dark rooms without completely renovating the space or buying expensive specialized lighting? I’m especially interested in solutions that can be nicely integrated into the shelving design, and practical tips regarding the choice of light color and positioning of the light sources would also be helpful.

Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

Fredlo6 Dec 2016 10:22

Great idea with the LED strips! I equipped my Platsa shelves with dimmable LEDs – it’s a dream! You can adjust the ambiance perfectly. It’s especially fantastic in dark rooms. Give it a try, you’ll be impressed!

libar496 Dec 2016 10:40

Interesting that everyone here recommends LED strips or bars – those are practical, but also quite boring. Why not experiment with indirect lighting behind the shelves or color-changing LEDs? That can create a much more atmospheric effect and break up the dull IKEA-style look.

gavino6 Dec 2016 11:05

[@libar49]
I find your idea of indirect lighting interesting, but it seems to involve more effort.

Could you please explain in more detail how and where to install it best without having to modify the shelves? I would appreciate some practical tips.

libar496 Dec 2016 11:21

#10

Sure! You can attach the LEDs to the back of the shelves, so they shine backwards. This causes the light to reflect off the wall behind the shelf, creating a soft glow. You only need self-adhesive LED strips and possibly a power supply/driver. No modifications to the shelf are necessary; just use the space behind it.

Renegi6 Dec 2016 11:40

#11

Battery-operated LED puck lights are also a good option when there is no power outlet nearby. They are very practical for retrofitting shelves, avoiding messy cables. Often available with motion sensors.

difepeo6 Dec 2016 12:07

#12

libar49 schrieb:
You can stick the LEDs to the back of the shelves, so they shine basically backwards.

This indirect lighting is quite clever. However, I wonder if the light will be sufficient for the workspace at the shelf. Especially with dark walls, the reflections might remain too weak. Maybe the wall color should be reconsidered to something lighter?

ᐅ How can IKEA PLATSA shelving units be better illuminated in dark rooms?

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